A dual ecosystem and pathway towards holistic ownership is imperative for transformational change and closing the wealth gap.
Our Pathway Approach
We work with school, district, and nonprofit partners to select students in their junior or senior year of high school. To participate, students will have demonstrated nontraditional leadership skills and motivation to succeed. Young people form groups through the Ownership Idea Fest, and enterprises receive a series of cash investments based on our judging rubric for viability and impact.
Students are supported through a resourced network of investor mentors, programming to develop and own enterprises deeply connected to their purpose, and investment skills and experiences linked to their broader Ownership capacity. Enterprises range from small business solutions to high-growth technology solutions and social impact organizations.
We see ourselves as facilitators of student creation and self-determination, helping students see themselves as creators and investors in their own vision, building an ecosystem around them and supporting their skills development and pathway to self-defined success.
Our Ecosystem Approach
Our intentional ecosystem is essential for interrupting systemic barriers that stifle Black students’ full promise and provides a platform that includes the support, skills building, accountability and resources required to disrupt the odds.
